The Little Red Book
SWAG: A blog for the serious shopper
Posts Tagged ‘zappos.com’

Sure Things: Hunter Wellies

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Monday, January 10th, 2011

Hunter Regent Savoy Black Boot (zappos.com)

Hunter Regent Savoy Black Boot (zappos.com)

Hello there, shoppers! A new year is all about newness (as you may have gathered from life if not our January issue), and SWAG is no exception. Over the next few weeks, we’ll be rolling out several new ongoing SWAG series, one of which is very dear to this shopper’s heart: Sure Things.

From the time we’re babies, we come to love certain objects as if we couldn’t live without them. We could have a million blankets, but there’s that one that is just so snug, so soft, the perfect pattern to keep us entertained. That one blanket somehow achieves perfection, at least as close as we can come to it. Well, when we grow up, it may not be a certain blanket (though, who doesn’t love a high-thread-count warmer?) but surely there is that one mascara, that certain brand and style of jeans, that one spatula, that particular bag that makes life just that much better.

I’ve shared my affinity for Hudson jeans (long, lean, soft fabrics, gorgeous hues). But when it comes to what to wear over them, one foot accessory that I just love, love, love — seriously, I wonder how I ever did winter without them? — is my Hunter Wellies, specifically the Hunter Regent Savoy Boot pictured.

Why? First, the design is fun, and less just-rolled-out-of-bed than Uggs (not than I’m an Ugg hater). Second, they’re practical — totally waterproof and easy to wipe off. Third, they’re comfortable. Plus, you can make them go with just about anything. At least certain stars seem to prove that. At roughly $175, I’d say you get a lot of bang for your buck. Of course some Hunter boots (in all kinds of fun colors, styles and lengths) cost as little as $115. And if you watch sample sale sites like ruelala.com and gilt.com, and you’ll often spot them for around $75.

Gotta love something that does far more than just double duty! Agree? What’s one of your wintertime or anytime sure things?

Happy shopping!

–Natalie Kaar

Ps. Don’t miss today’s Specialicious very-special specials!



Snowy Weather Solutions on Sale

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Monday, February 8th, 2010

Hunter Original Boot, $115 (zappos.com)

Hunter Original Boot, $115 (zappos.com)

Hey there, shoppers! I don’t know about you, but living in Virginia, I just don’t EVER expect this much snow. Yet, given that even more snow is in the forecast — and a certain groundhog saw his shadow — I figured it’s high-time for us all to get as prepared as possible. Better late than never, right?

To help prevent mental meltdowns while we wait for the snow to melt, I suggest taking advantage of some of the following deals:

First, what could be better for stylishly traversing snowy (or rainy) sidewalks than Hunter Wellies?! Well, almost nothing, and a couple of different styles and colors are currently on sale at zappos.com; plus the new shorter styles are available, which should work well for petite pretties. And, of course, you’ll receive free shipping, including free returns.

As for purely functional winter friends, a 20-pound bag of Road Runner Pet-Friendly Ice Melt is just $9.34 at lowes.com.

Also, the Toro Power Shovel, which my dad (hailing from regularly snowy Pa.) swears by, is available on Amazon for $139.99; it usually costs $10 more.

Now, when it comes to scarves, hats, gloves and other cold weather gear, however, I’d hold out for this Saturday’s Old Town Boutique District Warehouse Sale (which will hopefully go on as rescheduled), where incredible winter items will be marked incredibly low.

Happy shopping. Be safe!



Shopping Plans for Your Weekend

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Thursday, July 23rd, 2009

Dresses at Periwinkle (periwinkleshop.com)

Dresses at Periwinkle (periwinkleshop.com)

Good morning, shoppers! Here’s hoping you don’t have too busy of a weekend planned already; there are lots of deals that are simply too good to miss!

First of all, you may want to go through all of those photos you took over the past few months or, in my case, over the past year, and put together a photo book that will knock your socks off every time you look at it. Mypublisher.com — I made wedding albums from this site (deluxe size) and a family beach album (regular size) that are AMAZING — is offering 30 percent off orders of $100 or more and 15 percent off orders of $50 or more with the code “SUMMER30″ through July 27.  Here’s hoping I find time, magically, to create a honeymoon book in that time window; we’ll see.

There are also some absolutely wonderful sales going on at area stores this weekend. For instance, in Vienna, the home, garden and gift boutique Pear Tree Cottage is celebrating its one-year anniversary with a store-wide sale tomorrow, July 24, through Sunday, August 2. All full-priced items will be 20 percent off, and other items will be sold at prices up to 45 percent off. Plus, gardening seminars are scheduled throughout the month; for details and to make a reservation (required), call 703-938-1331.

Also, Alexandria’s Periwinkle is offering 25 percent off all merchandise, including a 25 percent discount on already-reduced items tomorrow through the following Friday, July 31.

No surprise, in Tysons there are oodles of places to save. Given that it’s wedding season and all, though, you may want to add Paper Cult to your must-visit-this-weekend list. The store is having a Half-yearly Sale, featuring 30 percent off everything, from fine stationery to wrapping paper. And, if you’ve been reading SWAG for a while, you know I recommend nearby Vienna’s Valerianne highly for wedding gifts.

Finally, in Fredericksburg, big time savings are still to be scooped up at Simpatica, which has moved across the hall (still at 810 Caroline St.). To celebrate its grand opening in the new space, this weekend the store will feature a Custo Barcelona trunk show, provide champagne and goodies, and showcase new items from JWLA, Velvet, Citizens of Humanity, Testament and P.J. Salvage.

Happy shopping!

Ps. What do you think about Amazon buying Zappos? I hope they continue to offer the same amazing customer service.



Enter to Win a Dream Closet Makeover

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Monday, June 29th, 2009

(Shutterstock.com)

(Shutterstock.com)

Good morning, shoppers. Here’s hoping you all had a terrific weekend! As for myself, I’m surprised that I’m not too dizzy to write this given the number of paint chips I’ve been scrutinizing lately. Who knew there were so many names for different shades of beige?! You’ve got to hand it to those copywriters.

Anyway, as the hubby and I are moving soon — crossing our fingers for our closing tomorrow! — I’ve also been paying extra attention to my closet, as I do each and every time I move. You know the drill, I’m sure; suddenly, you envision wardrobe boxes and dream of  getting things incredibly organized in your new space. Well, let’s just say that a fancy closet system would be nice, but it’s not in the ol’ budget right now.

Regardless of whether or not you’re planning a move soon, could your closet use a little special attention, too, but you’re not prepared to shell out the cash for pro help? If so, join me in entering the Dream Closet Makeover sweepstakes from Little Black Dress Wines, Easy Track and Zappos.com!

For simply filling out a brief entry form at littleblackdresswines.com (where in addition to wines, you’ll also find designers’ style tips, advice from party pros, the scoop on celebrity auctions, etc. ), you’ll receive a chance of becoming the lucky grand prize winner of a $5,000 Easy Track closet redo and $10,000 of clothing and accessories from Zappos.com to help you fill it!

Here are the official rules. Good luck!



Sound, Stylish Reasons to Be Shady

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Friday, June 26th, 2009

San Diego Hat Company Medium Ribbon Crusher Hat with 4-inch Brim--also available in black and white; $25.20 (Bloomingdales)

San Diego Hat Company Medium Ribbon Crusher Hat with 4-inch Brim--also available in black and white; $25.20 (Bloomingdales)

Good morning, shoppers!

While we’re all trying to get over the sad news we received from Hollywood yesterday, I’ve also been reflecting on just how ridiculous this sun-lover has been when it comes to not only adequately protecting my skin from the damaging rays but my eyes as well. Why? A trip to the ophthalmologist and getting told you have irreversible UV damage (at age 30!) can do that to ya. Fortunately, my vision is not impaired although I now have redness and inflammation to control. Talk about a wake-up call! This girl’s been scared straight!

Don’t be like me; listen to your parents and wear those sunglasses and hats before you really have something to worry about. Besides, there are tons of stylish options out there, and the deals on them also abound!

For example, here are some stores/sites with sweet sales on sunglasses:

Zappos (home to one of the best customer service teams out there, plus free shipping both ways and a 365-day return policy)

Sunglass Hut (great choices under $100)

And, here are some stores/sites with hot discounts on hats:

Anthropologie

Bloomingdales

Neiman Marcus

And, for protection while running: Adidas (I got this visor (in white) for under $10 at the Tysons Adidas store yesterday–not to mention running shirts for only $11 each!

Happy Shopping! And, Happy Friday!



Sales to Help You Swallow Tax Day

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Wednesday, April 15th, 2009

(Source: shutterstock.com)Good morning, shoppers! As you’re well aware, today is Tax Day.  Whether you’re among the refund-receiving set or the sad-to-be-sending-it-to-Uncle-Sam set, I say you deserve a little something for filing on time. So, here’s a little heads-up on some super sales that could act as much more than a little pat on the back.

If you don’t mind heading into the District on a weekday:

Point those stilettos to Wink (3109 M St. NW) and “Strut Into Spring.” Fashion writer Makeda Saggau-Sackey & TV personality Paul Wharton will be on hand to help the fab boutique celebrate its fifth anniversary with a fashion show, some bubbly and treats, and a special 2o percent discount on in-store purchases! Drop by between 6:30 and 8:30 p.m.

If you prefer to stay on the suburban side of things:

The Limited could provide just the type of sales support you seek; through Sunday, April 26th, in stores and online, receive $30 off a $100 purchase or $20 off a $60 purchase.

Plus, serenity is right around the corner thanks to this week being Spa Week – nice timing, right? If wanting to get on the soothing spa action, click here to register at spaweek.com and see which businesses are participating in Virginia — there are nearly 30! (Speaking of spas, I can’t stop thinking about all of the soothing, absolutely glorious scents I sniffed at Vienna’s fantastic Valerianne yesterday,  not to mention the softest towels I’ve ever touched — bamboo — for creating a spa-like atmosphere at home. More on that remarkable store later.)

Then again, if you prefer to keep it to the PC or laptop:

Don’t miss the last day to receive 20 percent off with code “CityShopGirl” at shoptheshoebox.com, fabulous new web partner to National Jean Company and home to shoes from a bevy of fantastic designers including Kate Spade, DVF and Marc Jacobs! Thanks again, cityshopgirl.com!

Of course, if you’re a Stuart Weitzman fan, you’ll also want to click here to save up to 65 percent on SW shoes at zappos.com!

Clubbebe members will also want to point their browser to bebe.com where they’ll receive 20 percent off all sale items today through Monday, April 20, with code “TAXBREAK” at checkout.

For those last-minute filers who find themselves particularly stressed, perhaps a little Bath & Body Works Stress Relief Aromatherapy could help cool those jets. And, good news: today only, aromatherapy items are just $8 at bathandbodyworks.com.



Little Time To Go ’til Shecky’s GNO!

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Friday, March 27th, 2009

(Shecky's)Happy Friday, shoppers! Even though I imagine your spring calendar is probably just about booked solid already with trips, weddings and scores of other exciting events, I hope you’ll remember to make room in your busy agenda for Shecky’s Spring Girls Night Out D.C.! After all, the marvelous shopping event to take over DAR Constitution Hall April 23-25 from 5 to 10 p.m. each day, is one that is truly a you-really-don’t-want-to-miss-it  (because you’ll be envious of your friends who do attend) event!

Trust me, I missed the fall show due to being across the pond, and I’m still being told that I really missed out. That is that I missed out on snagging amazing indie clothing and accessories for practically a steal (up to 75 percent off), delicious cocktails, soothing spa services (free!) and an absolutely legendary goodie bag (stuffed with beauty products and fun freebies). Now, if I hadn’t been in the gorgeous Mediterranean on my honeymoon with my equally gorgeous hubby, this would be a little tough for me to take. So, if your honeymoon doesn’t fall on April 23-25, I suggest you plan on attending the spring show!

After all, it’s free to enter if you’re a Shecky’s subscriber  – and can resist paying $25 to leave with a bag that put the “good” in goodie! Reserve those tickets today!

See you there!

Ps. Over 150 different Kate Spade shoe styles are now marked up to 47 percent off at zappos.com — plus free shipping!




Law Office of Betty Thompson